Anchor and rod connector

ABSTRACT

A method of adjusting a distance between a first surgical rod and a second surgical rod includes providing a surgical rod connector having a housing with first and second ends and a longitudinal passage extending between the first end and the second end. The method also includes positioning the first surgical rod in the first end and positioning the second surgical rod in the second end. The method further includes mounting an anchor mechanism to the surgical rod connector and applying a force on the anchor mechanism and a corresponding force on one of the first and second surgical rods to distract the first and second surgical rods relative to one another.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a system and method for connecting anddistracting surgical rods, and more particularly to a system and methodfor connecting and distracting at least two spinal rods in an end-to-endconfiguration.

BACKGROUND

This section provides background information related to the presentdisclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

Various surgical procedures may include the use of a rod to interconnectbones and/or various types of surgical implants. For example, a surgicalprocedure performed on a spine may require the use of a spinal rod tointerconnect at least two vertebrae, or to connect a vertebra to aspinal implant. Some surgical procedures require the use of multiplerods. Various systems and methods have been developed forinterconnecting multiple rods during a surgical procedure, includingsystems and methods for interconnecting multiple rods in an end-to-endor parallel configuration. While placing and interconnecting multiplerods in a connector during a surgical procedure, it may be desirable toadjust a distance between the rods and/or a distance between theconnector and the rod. Additionally, it may be desirable to have aconnector that can be coupled with curved rods, to adequately matchpatient anatomy.

While known spinal rod systems have proven to be acceptable for theirintended purposes, a continuous need for improvement in the relevantarts remains.

SUMMARY

This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not acomprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

According to one particular aspect, the present disclosure provides amethod of adjusting a distance between a first surgical rod and a secondsurgical rod. The method includes providing a surgical rod connector.The surgical rod connector includes a housing with first and second endsand a longitudinal passage extending between the first end and thesecond end. The method also includes positioning the first surgical rodin the first end of the housing and positioning the second surgical rodin the second end of the housing. The method further includes mountingan anchor mechanism to the connector and applying a force on the anchormechanism and a corresponding force on one of the first and secondsurgical rods to distract the first and second surgical rods.

In some configurations, the anchor mechanism may include first andsecond arms for removably engaging the housing.

In some configurations, the first arm may include at least one firstprojection, the second arm may include at least one second projection,and the housing may include first and second slots. The at least onefirst projection may be removably received by the first slot and the atleast one second projection may be removably received by the second slot

In some configurations, the first and second slots may be arranged in afirst plane, and the housing may include an opening in communicationwith the longitudinal passage. The opening may be arranged in a secondplane substantially perpendicular to the first plane.

In some configurations, the anchor mechanism may further include ananchor housing. The first and second arms may be pivotably mounted tothe anchor housing for rotation about a first axis and a second axis,respectively.

In some configurations, the anchor housing may include first and secondreceiving slots. The first and second arms may be pivotably receivedwithin the first and second receiving slots.

In some configurations, the housing may extend arcuately between thefirst and second ends.

In some configurations, the anchor mechanism may include an anchorhousing and a locking mechanism rotatably mounted to the anchor housing.The locking mechanism may be operable to rotate about a first axis.

In some configurations, the anchor mechanism may further include a firstarm pivotably mounted to the anchor housing for rotation about a secondaxis and a second arm pivotably mounted to the anchor housing forrotation about a third axis.

In some configurations, the first axis may be substantiallyperpendicular to the second and third axes.

In some configurations, the anchor housing may extend between a firstend and a second end. The locking mechanism may extend from the firstend of the anchor housing and the first and second arms may extend fromthe second end of the anchor housing.

In some configurations, the locking mechanism may include a firstportion having a first peripheral surface and the housing may include asecond peripheral surface similarly sized and shaped as the firstperipheral surface.

In some configurations, the locking mechanism may include a secondportion extending from the first portion. The second portion may bemounted within the housing.

In some configurations, the anchor mechanism may include a firstactuating member, a second actuating member pivotably coupled to thefirst actuating member for rotation about a first axis, and adistracting member coupled to the second actuating member.

In some configurations, the first actuating member may include first andsecond arms for removably engaging the housing.

In some configurations, the first actuating member may further includefirst and second legs. The first and second arms may be pivotablymounted to the first and second legs, respectively, for rotation about afirst axis and a second axis, respectively.

In some configurations, the distracting member extends between the firstand second legs.

In some configurations, the anchor mechanism may further comprise anadjustment member rotatably coupled to the second actuating member. Thedistracting member may be threadably engaged with the adjustment member.

In some configurations, the adjustment member may be operable to adjustthe position of the distracting member along a second axis that isperpendicular to the first axis.

In some configurations, the first actuating member may include first andsecond arms for removably engaging the housing. The first and secondarms may be pivotably mounted to the anchor housing for rotation about athird axis and a fourth axis, respectively. The third and fourth axesmay extend in a direction perpendicular to the first axis and to thesecond axis.

In some configurations, the connector may include a central passage, afirst slot extending through the connector in a first direction, and asecond slot extending through the connector in a second directionperpendicular to the first direction. The first and second slots may becommunication with the central passage.

In some configurations, the central passage may be at least partiallydefined by a first upper surface, and the second slot may be at leastpartially defined by a second upper surface that is aligned with thefirst upper surface.

In some configurations, the connector may further include a third slotextending through the connector in second direction. The third slot mayoppose the second slot and may be at least partially defined by a thirdupper surface that is aligned with the first upper surface.

In some configurations, the connector may include a central passage anda first slot extending through the connector and in communication withthe central passage. The central passage may be at least partiallydefined by a concave sidewall. The first slot may be at least partiallydefined by opposed planar sidewalls.

In some configurations, the connector may include a central passage, afirst slot extending through the connector in a first direction, and asecond slot extending through the connector in a second directionperpendicular to the first direction. The first and second slots may bein communication with the central passage.

According to another particular aspect, the present disclosure providesa device for distracting first and second surgical rods. The deviceincludes a connector and an anchor mechanism. The connector includes ahousing with a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal passageextending therebetween. The first and second ends of the housing receivethe first and second surgical rods, respectively. The anchor mechanismis removably securable to the housing for opposing a force to distractthe first and second surgical rods.

According to yet another particular aspect, the present disclosureprovides a method of adjusting a distance between a first surgical rodand a second surgical rod. The method may include providing a surgicalrod connector having a housing with first and second ends and alongitudinal passage extending between the first end and the second end.The method may also include positioning the first surgical rod in thefirst end and positioning the second surgical rod in the second end. Themethod may further include mounting an anchor mechanism to theconnector. The method can also include applying a force on the anchormechanism and a corresponding force on one of the first and secondsurgical rods to distract the first and second surgical rods relative toone another.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the descriptionprovided herein. The description and specific examples in this summaryare intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended tolimit the scope of the present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only ofselected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are notintended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a system for connecting and distractinga surgical rod, in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the system of FIG. 1 shown partially insection.

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 3A-3A of FIG. 1,an anchor of the system shown in a locked position.

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 3A, the anchor of thesystem shown in an unlocked position.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is an end view of a connector and the anchor of the system ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the connector and the anchor of the system ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the connector and the anchor of the system ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another configuration of a system forconnecting and distracting a surgical rod, in accordance with theprinciples of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is an end view of the system of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 10A-10A of FIG.9, the system shown in a first position.

FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 10A-10A of FIG.9, the system shown in a second position.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a connector of the system of FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 is a top view of the connector of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a side view of the connector of FIG. 1.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 14-14 of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another connector of the system of FIG.8.

FIG. 16 is a top view of the connector of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a side view of the connector of FIG. 15.

FIG. 18A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 18A-18A of FIG.17.

FIG. 18B is a cross-sectional view of a cutting tool for use inmanufacturing the connector of FIG. 15.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another connector of the system of FIG.8.

FIG. 20 is a top view of the connector of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is a side view of the connector of FIG. 19.

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 22-22 of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of another connector of the system of FIG.8.

FIG. 24 is a top view of the connector of FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is a side view of the connector of FIG. 23.

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 26-26 of FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 27-27 of FIG. 25.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughoutthe several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference tothe accompanying drawings.

With general reference to the drawings, a system for connecting anddistracting at least one surgical rod in accordance with the presentteachings is illustrated and identified at reference character 10.According to one exemplary use, the system 10 may be used to connect anddistract a first rod 12 relative to a second rod 14. The system 10,including the first and second rods 12, 14, may be used to repair a bone(not shown) or secure a bone relative to an implant (not shown) during asurgical procedure. By way of example only, the first and second rods12, 14 may be spinal rods. Accordingly, the system 10 may be used tosecure, or otherwise correct or repair, a spine. It will be appreciated,however, that the principles of the present disclosure may be adapted tosecure, or otherwise repair, various bones and various implants.

The system 10 may generally include a connector 16 and an anchor 18. Theconnector 16 may include a housing or body 20 for connecting the firstand second rods 12, 14 in a substantially parallel configuration (e.g.,end-to-end alignment). The body 20 may extend longitudinally between afirst end 22 and a second end 24. As illustrated in FIG. 2, in oneconfiguration the body 20 may extend arcuately between the first andsecond ends 22, 24. The first end 22 may include a first rod opening 26formed therein for receiving the first rod 12 and the second end 24 mayinclude a second rod opening 28 formed therein for receiving the secondrod 14. A channel or passage 30, in which a portion of the first rod 12and a portion of the second rod 14 may be positioned, may extend betweenthe first rod opening 26 and the second rod opening 28. It will beappreciated that a radius of curvature of the arcuately extending body20, including the passage 30, may be substantially equal to a radius ofcurvature of the curved or arcuately extending rods 12, 14, asillustrated in FIG. 2.

In one configuration, the passage 30, including the first and second rodopenings 26, 28, may be substantially cylindrical in shape, including agenerally circular cross section. In other configurations, the passage30 may have different shapes. For example, the passage 30, including thefirst and second rod openings 26, 28, may have a polygonal, square,elliptical, rectilinear, or other suitable cross-sectional shape. Inthis regard, it will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape ofthe passage 30, including the first and second rod openings 26, 28, mayapproximately correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the firstand/or second rod 12, 14 received thereby. In certain configurations,the first rod opening 26, the second rod opening 28, and portions of thepassage 30 therebetween may be distinct in size and shape to receive andconnect two rods of different size and/or shape. Explaining further, itwill be understood that the rods 12, 14 may have any cross-sectionalshape within the scope of the present teachings provided that the rods12, 14 cooperate with the connector 16. In addition, as illustrated inat least FIG. 2, the rods 12, 14 may have a generally arcuate or curvedprofile extending along the length thereof.

The body 20 of the connector 16 may also include first and secondsidewalls 32, 34 and an elongated opening or slot 36. The first andsecond sidewalls 32, 34 may extend between the first and second ends 22,24. The elongated slot 36 may extend longitudinally between the firstand second sidewalls 32, 34 and open into and communicate with thepassage 30. The elongated slot 36 may be symmetrically oriented in afirst plane 38 (FIGS. 3A and 5). In this regard, the elongated slot 36may be oriented to allow access to the passage 30 from the top of theconnector 16, relative to the view in FIG. 3A. In one configuration, thefirst sidewall 32 is substantially parallel to the second sidewall 34and to the first plane 38. In other configurations, the first and secondsidewalls 32, 34 may be disposed in an arcuate configuration or at otherangles relative to each other.

The first and second sidewalls 32, 34 may further include a plurality ofspaced apart slots 40 a, 40 b, respectively, oriented along the lengthof the body 20 between the first end 22 and the second end 24. The slots40 a, 40 b may open into and communicate with the passage 30. In oneconfiguration, the first sidewall 32 includes five slots 40 a and thesecond sidewall 34 includes five slots 40 b. It will be appreciated,however, that the first and second sidewalls 32, 34 may include greateror less than five slots 40 a, 40 b within the scope of the presentdisclosure. In some configurations, the slots 40 a in the first sidewall32 may be substantially aligned with, and of a similar size and shapeas, the slots 40 b in the second sidewall 34. It will also beappreciated, however, that the slots 40 a may be offset from, orotherwise staggered relative to, the slots 40 b. In this regard, asillustrated in FIG. 7, the slots 40 a, 40 b may have a longitudinallyextending length L1, and consecutive slots 40 a, 40 b may be separatedby a longitudinally extending distance D1.

With reference to FIGS. 3A, 5 and 7, at least a portion of each of theslots 40 a, 40 b may be symmetrically oriented in and about an arc 42.The arc 42 and the first plane 38 may define an angle α therebetween. Inone configuration, the angle α may be substantially equal to ninetydegrees. It will be appreciated, however, that the angle α may begreater or less than ninety degrees within the scope of the presentdisclosure. While the slots 40 a, 40 b are described and illustratedherein as being oriented in and about the arc 42, it will also beappreciated that the slots 40 a may be oriented in the arc 42 and theslots 40 b may be oriented in another arc (not shown).

As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 6, the body 20 of the connector 16 mayfurther include first and second apertures 44, 46 for receiving firstand second fasteners or closure mechanisms 48, 50, respectively. Thefirst and second apertures 44, 46 may communicate with the passage 30.In one configuration, the first aperture 44 is positioned proximate thefirst end 22 of the body 20 and the second aperture 46 is positionedproximate the second end 24 of the body 20. As illustrated in FIG. 6,the first and second apertures 44, 46 may be symmetrically oriented inthe first plane 38.

The first closure mechanism 48 may threadably mount within the firstaperture 44 for locking the position of the first spinal rod 12 withinthe passage 30. The second closure mechanism 50 may threadably mountwithin the second aperture 46 for locking the position of the secondspinal rod 12 within the passage 30. In one configuration, the first andsecond closure mechanisms 48, 50 are threaded set screws. In thisregard, the first and second closure mechanisms 48, 50 may each includea driver-receiving portion 52, 54, respectively, such as a hexagonal ormulti-lobular bore, for operatively receiving a driver 56 (FIG. 1), suchas a hexagonal or multi-lobular key. The first and second closuremechanisms 48, 50 may be mounted within the first and second apertures44, 46 using the driver 56.

The anchor 18 may include a body or housing 58, a first arm 60, a secondarm 62, and a locking mechanism 64. The first and second arms 60, 62 maybe coupled to the housing 58 and may be operable to selectively engagethe body 20 of the connector 16 in a first configuration (FIG. 3A). Thelocking mechanism 64 may be coupled to the housing 58 and may beoperable to selectively lock or secure the first and second arms 60, 62in the first configuration (FIG. 3a ).

The housing 58 may extend longitudinally between a first end 66 and asecond end 68. The first end 66 may include a longitudinally extendingopening 70 (FIG. 4) formed therein. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, theopening 70 may define a longitudinal axis 71. The housing 58 may furtherinclude first and second sidewalls 72 a, 72 b and third and fourthsidewalls 74 a, 74 b. The first and second sidewalls 72 a, 72 b mayinclude a substantially planar profile. The third and fourth sidewalls74 a, 74 b may include a substantially arcuate profile and may includefirst and second arm receiving slots 75, 77. The first and second armreceiving slots 75, 77 may extend longitudinally from the second end 68of the housing 58. The first arm receiving slot 75 may face, orgenerally oppose, the second arm receiving slot 77.

The first arm 60 may be substantially similar to the second arm 62. Inthis regard, the first and second arms 60, 62 may extend longitudinallybetween a first end 76 and a second end 78. The second end 78 of thefirst and second arms 60, 62 may include at least one detent orprojection 80. As illustrated in FIG. 2, in one configuration, thesecond end 78 of the first and second arms 60, 62 includes twoprojections 80 defining a length L2 and defining a distance D2 betweenthe projections 80. The length L2 may be substantially equal to, orslightly less than, the length L1 of the slots 40 a, 40 b. The distanceD2 may be substantially equal to, or slightly greater than, the distanceD1 between consecutive slots 40 a, 40 b.

In an assembled configuration, the first arm 60 may be pivotably mountedin the first arm receiving slot 75, and the second arm 62 may bepivotably mounted in the second arm receiving slot 77, such that thesecond end 78 of the first and second arms 60, 62 extends from andbeyond the second end 68 of the housing 58. In this regard, asillustrated in FIG. 4, the housing 58 may include at least one bore 82,and the first and second arms 60, 62 may include at least one bore 84.In the assembled configuration, the bore 82 and the bore 84 may definefirst and second axes 85 a, 85 b that are substantially perpendicular tothe axis 71. A pin 86 may be mounted in the bore 82 and in the bore 84,such that the first and second arms 60, 62 can pivot about the axes 85a, 85 b, respectively.

With reference to FIG. 4, the locking mechanism 64 may include a firstportion 90 and a second portion 92. A peripheral surface of the firstportion 90 may be similarly sized and shaped as a peripheral surface ofthe housing 58. In this regard, the first portion 90 may include firstand second sidewalls 94 a, 94 b and third and fourth sidewalls 96 a, 96b. The first and second sidewalls 94 a, 94 b may include a substantiallyplanar profile. The third and fourth sidewalls 96 a, 96 b may include asubstantially arcuate profile. The second portion 92 of the lockingmechanism 64 may include first and second stopping ends 98 a, 98 b. Thefirst and second stopping ends 98 a, 98 b may include a width W1 anddefine a distance D3 therebetween. The width W1 may be less than thedistance D3.

In an assembled configuration, the first portion 90 of the lockingmechanism 64 may extend from the first end 66 of the housing 58. Thesecond portion 92 of the locking mechanism 64 may be rotatably mountedin the opening 70 of the housing 58, such that the locking mechanism 64can rotate about the axis 71 between a locked position (FIG. 3A) and anunlocked position (FIG. 3B). In the locked position, the first andsecond stopping ends 98 a, 98 b may face, or otherwise abut, the firstand second arms 60, 62, to prevent the first and second arms 60, 62 frompivoting about the axes 85 a, 85 b, respectively. In the unlockedposition, the first and second stopping ends 98 a, 98 b may be offsetfrom the first and second arms 60, 62, to allow the first and secondarms 60, 62 to pivot about the axes 85 a, 85 b, respectively. It willalso be appreciated that in the locked position, the substantiallyplanar first and second sidewalls 94 a, 94 b of the locking mechanism 64may be aligned with the substantially planar first and second sidewalls72 a, 72 b of the housing 58. In the unlocked position, thesubstantially planar first and second sidewalls 94 a, 94 b may bealigned with the arcuate third and fourth sidewalls 74 a, 74 b of thehousing 58. In this way, the alignment of the first and second sidewalls94 a, 94 b relative to the first and second sidewalls 72 a, 72 b or thethird and fourth sidewalls 74 a, 74 b of the housing 58 can indicatewhether the locking mechanism 64 is in the locked position or theunlocked position.

In operation, the first and second rods 12, 14 can be extended into thepassage 30 of the connector 16 through the first and second rod openings26, 28, respectively. The first and second arms 60, 62 can be rotatedabout the axes 85 a, 85 b, respectively, to increase a distance betweenthe second ends 78 of the first and second arms 60, 62, and theprojections 80 can be positioned in the slots 40 a, 40 b. The lockingmechanism 64 can be rotated about the axis 71 such that the first andsecond stopping ends 98 a, 98 b face, or otherwise abut, the first andsecond arms 60, 62, thus locking the anchor 18 to the connector 16 bypreventing the first and second arms 60, 62 from pivoting about the axes85 a, 85 b, respectively.

A distractor 100, including first and second jaws or ends 102, 104, maybe positioned within the slot 36 and the passage 30 of the connectorbody 20. Insofar as the present teachings are concerned, it will beunderstood that the distractor 100 is conventional in both constructionand operation. The first end 102 of the distractor may be positionedadjacent the housing 58 of the anchor 18. The second end 104 of thedistractor 100 may be positioned adjacent the second rod 14. Thedistance between the first and second ends 102, 104 of the distractor100 may be increased to apply a force F1 on the anchor 18 and acorresponding force F2 on the second rod 14. As illustrated, the forceF1 and the corresponding force F2 are applied directly to the anchor 18and the second rod 14, respectively. Applying the force F1 on the anchor18 and the force F2 on the second rod 14 may increase the distancebetween the second rod 14 and the anchor 18. When a desired distancebetween the second rod 14 and the anchor 18 is achieved, the closuremechanism 50 may be tightened within the aperture 44 using the driver56, such that the closure mechanism 50 engages the second rod 14 andsecures the second rod 14 within the passage 30.

It will be appreciated that the distractor 100 and anchor 18 may also beused to achieve a desired distance between the first rod 12 and theanchor 18, in the same manner described above. When a desired distancebetween the first and/or second rods 12, 14 and the anchor 18 isrealized, the locking mechanism 64 can be rotated about the axis 71 suchthat the first and second stopping ends 98 a, 98 b are offset from thefirst and second arms 60, 62, thus allowing the first and second arms60, 62 to pivot about the axes 85 a, 85 b, respectively. The first andsecond arms 60, 62 may then be pivoted about the axes 85 a, 85 b,respectively, to remove the projections 80 from the slots 40 a, 40 b,and to remove the anchor 18 from the connector 16.

With reference to FIGS. 8 through 10B, another system for connecting anddistracting at least one surgical rod in accordance with the presentteachings is illustrated and identified at reference character 200. Thestructure and function of the system 200 may be substantially similar tothat of the system 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 7, apart from anyexceptions described below and/or shown in the Figures. Therefore, thestructure and/or function of similar features will not be describedagain in detail, and like reference numerals may be used to describelike features and components.

The system 200 may include an anchor 202 and a connector 204. While theanchor 202 is illustrated and described herein as being operable withthe connector 204, it will be appreciated that the anchor 202 may alsobe operable with any of the connectors described herein, including theconnector 16. The anchor 202 may include a first actuating member 206, asecond actuating member 208, the first arm 60, the second arm 62, adistracting member 210, and an adjustment member 212. As will beexplained in more detail below, the anchor 202 may be operable to engageand secure the connector 204 and also distract the first and/or secondrod 12, 14 relative to the connector 204.

The first actuating member 206 may include a handle portion 216 and anengagement portion 218. As illustrated, the handle portion 216 mayarcuately extend from the engagement portion 218. In this regard, thehandle portion 216 may be integrally and monolithically formed with theengagement portion 218. It will be appreciated, however, that the handleportion 216 may also be separately formed and coupled to the engagementportion 218. The engagement portion 218 may include first and secondlegs 220, 222. The first and second legs 220, 222 may define a centralchannel or passage 224 therebetween. The first leg 220 may include afirst channel or groove 230 extending longitudinally therein. The secondleg 222 may include a second channel or groove (not shown) extendinglongitudinally therein. In this regard, the first groove 230 and thesecond groove may extend in a direction substantially parallel to thecentral passage 224.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, the first and second arms 60, 62 may bepivotably coupled to the first actuating member 206 and may be operableto selectively engage the connector 204 in a first configuration. Thefirst arm 60 may be disposed in the first groove 230, and the second arm62 may be disposed in the second groove. A biasing member (not shown)may be disposed between the first arm 60 and the first leg 220.Similarly, another biasing member (not shown) may be disposed betweenthe second arm 62 and the second leg 222. The biasing members may biasthe projections 80 into engagement with the connector 204 in the firstconfiguration (FIG. 10A).

The second actuating member 208 may include a handle portion 240 and adistracting member receiving portion 242, and may be pivotably coupledto the first actuating member 206 for rotation about a hinge 244. Thehinge 244 defines an axis of rotation 246. The handle portion 240 of thesecond actuating member 208 may be substantially similar to the handleportion 216 of the first actuating member 206. As illustrated, thehandle portion 240 may extend arcuately from the distracting memberreceiving portion 242. In this regard, the handle portion 240 may beintegrally and monolithically formed with the distracting memberreceiving portion 242. It will be appreciated, however, that the handleportion 240 may also be separately formed and coupled to the distractingmember receiving portion 242.

As illustrated in FIG. 10A, the distracting member receiving portion 242may define an aperture 248 therethrough. In an assembled configuration,the aperture 248 may open into the central passage 224 of the firstactuating member 206. The aperture 248 may extend along an axis 250 thatis substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation 246, and mayfurther define a counterbore 252.

The distracting member 210 may extend between a proximal end 256 and adistal end 258. The proximal end 256 may include a threaded portion 260.The distracting member 210 may include a tapered portion 262, such thatthe distal end 258 defines a reduced width portion of the distractingmember 210. As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10A, in an assembledconfiguration, the distracting member 210 may be disposed within thecentral passage 224 of the first actuating member 206 and within theaperture 248 of the second actuating member 208.

With further reference to FIG. 10A, the adjustment member 212 may definean aperture 266 therethrough. The aperture 266 may include a threadedportion 254 and a counterbore portion 268. In an assembledconfiguration, the distracting member receiving portion 242 of thesecond actuating member 208 may be disposed within the counterboreportion 268, such that the aperture 266 opens into the aperture 248. Theproximal end 256 of the distracting member 210 may be disposed withinthe aperture 266 of the adjustment member 212. As will be explained inmore detail below, the adjustment member 212 may serve as a knob,allowing the user to rotate the adjustment member 212 about the axis250, such that the threaded portion 254 engages the threaded portion 260of the distracting member 210. In this regard, the adjustment member 212may include a first annular groove 265 and the distracting memberreceiving portion 242 may include a second annular groove 267. In anassembled configuration, the first annular groove 265 may be alignedwith the second annular groove 267. An O-ring, C-clip, or other similarretaining device 269 may be disposed within the first and second annulargroove 265, 267, such that the adjustment member 212 can rotate relativeto the distracting member receiving portion 242 about the axis 250. Assuch, threadably engaging the threaded portion 254 of the adjustmentmember 212 with the threaded portion 260 of the distracting member 210can allow the distracting member 210 to move along, and parallel to, theaxis 250

With reference to FIGS. 8 through 14, the connector 204 may extendlongitudinally between a first end 270 and a second end 272, and mayinclude a channel or passage 274 in which a portion of the first rod 12and a portion of the second rod 14 is positioned. The passage 274 mayextend between the first rod opening 26 and the second rod opening 28.As illustrated in FIG. 14, in one configuration the passage 274 definesa generally rectangular cross-sectional shape. It will be appreciated,however, that the passage 274 may include other cross-sectional shapeswithin the scope of the present disclosure (e.g., round, hexagonal,elliptical, etc.)

The connector 204 may also include first and second sidewalls 276, 278and an elongated opening or slot 280. The first and second sidewalls276, 278 may extend between the first and second ends 270, 272. Theelongated slot 280 may extend longitudinally between the first andsecond sidewalls 276, 278 and open into and communicate with the passage274.

The first and second sidewalls 276, 278 may include a plurality ofspaced apart slots 282 a, 282 b, respectively, oriented along the lengthof the connector 204 between the first and second ends 270, 272. Theslots 282 a in the first sidewall 276 may be laterally offset from, andoverlap, the slots 282 b in the second sidewall 278. In this regard, asillustrated in FIG. 13, the first sidewall 276 may define a bridge 284 aextending between consecutive slots 282 a. The bridge 284 a may belaterally aligned with the slot 282 b. Similarly, a bridge 284 bextending between consecutive slots 282 b may be laterally aligned withthe slot 282 a. As illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, a lower surface oredge 286 of the slots 282 a may define, or otherwise be coplanar with, abottom surface 288 of the passage 274, and an upper surface or edge 287of the slots 282 a may define, or otherwise be coplanar with, a topsurface 289 of the passage 274. Similarly, a lower surface or edge 290of the slots 282 b may define, or otherwise be coplanar with, the bottomsurface 288 of the passage 274, and an upper surface or edge 291 of theslots 282 b may define, or otherwise be coplanar with, the top surface289 of the passage 274 (FIG. 10B). In this regard, as illustrated, theslots 282 a and the slots 282 b may define an arcuately extendingpattern. Specifically, each of the slots 282 a, 282 b may extendarcuately, and a group of slots 282 a, 282 b may extend in, or otherwisecollectively define, an arc. As will be explained in more detail below,the arcuate nature or construct of the individual slots 282 a, 282 band/or the group of slots 282 a, 282 b can allow for the construction ofan arcuate or curved connector 204 having an arcuate or curved passage274, while also allowing for the construction of the opening or slot 280having a width X2 that is less than a width of the passage 274.

With reference to FIG. 14, a method of manufacturing the connector 204may include machining the passage 274. Specifically, a milling or othercutting tool (not shown) may be used to form each of the slots 282 a and282 b to define the passage 274. The slots 282 a, 282 b may be milled toa depth X1. A milling or other cutting tool (not shown) having the widthX2 that is less than the depth X1, and less than a diameter or width ofthe first and second rods 12, 14, may be used to form the slot 280. Thewidth X2 ensures that the first and second rods 12, 14 are securedwithin the passage 274 and cannot exit the slot 280.

Operation of the system 200 will now be described in more detail. Theanchor 202 may be coupled to the connector 204 such that the first andsecond arms 60, 62 engage the slots 282 a, 282 b, respectively.Specifically, in one configuration, the projections 80 on the first arm60 may engage the slot 282 a, and the projections 80 on the second arm62 may engage two of the slots 282 b, such that the projections 80 onthe second arm 62 are disposed on opposite sides of the bridge 284 b.Similarly, in another configuration, the projections 80 on the first arm60 may engage two of the slots 282 a, and the projections 80 on thesecond arm 62 may engage the slot 282 b, such that the projections 80 onthe first arm 60 are disposed on opposite sides of the bridge 284 a.

With the first and second arms 60, 62 engaging the slots 282 a, 282 b,respectively, the distal end 258 of the distracting member 210,including the tip 264, may be disposed within the passage 274 and/or theslot 280. In this regard, the user may rotate the adjustment member 212such that the threaded portion 254 of the aperture 266 threadablyengages the threaded portion 260 of the distracting member 210, to allowthe distracting member 210 to extend within the passage 274 and/or theslot 280.

The second actuating member 208 may be pivoted about the hinge 244relative to the first actuating member 206 by squeezing or otherwisemoving the handle portion 216 relative to the handle portion 240.Pivoting the second actuating member 208 relative to the first actuatingmember 206 may cause the distracting member 210 to enter, and/orarticulate within, the central passage 224. As the distracting member210 articulates within the central passage 224, the distal end 258 ofthe distracting member may engage and move the first and/or second rod12, 14 relative to the connector 204. In this regard, applying a forceon the handle portions 216, 240 may cause the distracting member 210 toproduce a corresponding force on one of the first and second surgicalrods 12, 14 to distract the first and/or second surgical rod 12, 14relative to the other of the first and second surgical rod 12, 14 and/orrelative to the connector 204. As the distracting member 210 furtherarticulates within the central passage 224, the distal end 258 of thedistracting member 210 may disengage from the first and/or second rod12, 14. Specifically, as the distracting member 210 follows an arcuatepath 296 (FIGS. 10A and 10B), the distracting member 210 may exit theconnector 204 through the slot 280. To re-engage the distracting member210 with the first and/or second rod 12, 14, the user may rotate theadjustment member 212, as described above, and thus allow thedistracting member 210 to extend within the passage 274 and/or the slot280 and contact the first and/or second rod 12, 14.

With reference to FIGS. 15 through 18, another configuration of aconnector 304 is shown. The structure and function of the connector 304may be substantially similar to that of the connector 204 illustrated inFIGS. 8 through 14, apart from any exceptions described below and/orshown in the Figures. Therefore, the structure and/or function ofsimilar features will not be described again in detail, and likereference numerals may be used to describe like features and components.

The connector 304 may extend longitudinally between a first end 306 anda second end 308, and may include a channel or passage 310 and a slot312. The passage 310 may be defined by a concave sidewall of theconnector 304. As illustrated in FIG. 18, in one configuration, thepassage 310 may define a substantially circular cross section, and mayextend between the first and second ends 306, 308. A portion of thefirst rod 12 and a portion of the second rod 14 may be positioned withinthe passage 310. The slot 312 may extend longitudinally between a firstend 314 and a second end 316. A central portion of the slot 312 may bedefined by substantially parallel sidewalls 318 a, 318 b. The first andsecond ends 314, 316 of the slot 312 may be substantially circular.

A method of forming the passage 310 and the slot 312 may includeextending a milling or other cutting tool 320 into the connector 304.The cutting tool 320 may include a first portion 322 defining a diameteror width X3 and a second portion 324 defining a diameter or width X4that is less than the width X3. The cutting tool 320 may be insertedinto the connector 304 to create either or both of the first and secondends 314, 316. As the cutting tool 320 moves longitudinally between thefirst and second ends 314, 316, the first portion 322 may cut, orotherwise form, the passage 310 having the width X3, while the secondportion 324 cuts, or otherwise forms, the slot 312 having the width X4.The widths X3, X4 can ensure that the first and second rods 12, 14 areslidably received within the passage 310 without exiting the slot 312.

With reference to FIGS. 19 through 22, another configuration of aconnector 404 is shown. The structure and function of the connector 404may be substantially similar to that of the connector 204 illustrated inFIGS. 8 through 14 and the connector 304 illustrated in FIGS. 15 through18, apart from any exceptions described below and/or shown in theFigures. Therefore, the structure and/or function of similar featureswill not be described again in detail, and like reference numerals maybe used to describe like features and components.

The connector 404 may extend longitudinally between a first end 406 anda second end 408, and may include a channel or passage 410 and a slot412. The connector 404 may also include first and second sidewalls 414,416 extending between the first and second ends 406, 408. The first andsecond sidewalls 414, 416 may include a plurality of spaced apart slots418 a, 418 b, respectively, oriented along the length of the connector404 between the first and second ends 406, 408. The slots 418 a in thefirst sidewall 414 may be laterally offset from, and overlap, the slots418 b in the second sidewall 416. In this regard, as illustrated in FIG.18, a bridge 420 a extending between consecutive slots 418 a may belaterally aligned with the slot 418 b. Similarly, a bridge 420 bextending between consecutive slots 418 b may be laterally aligned withthe slot 418 a. As illustrated in FIG. 22, an upper surface or edge 422of the slots 418 a may define, or otherwise be coplanar with, an uppersurface 424 of the passage 410. Similarly, an upper surface or edge 426of the slots 418 b may define, or otherwise be coplanar with, the uppersurface 424 of the passage 410 and with the upper edge 422 of the slots418 a. A height H1 of the first and second slots 418 a, 418 b may beless than a height H2 of the passage 810. The height H1, that is lessthan the height H2, can improve the strength and rigidity of theconnector 404. As noted above, in other respects, the slots 418 a, 418 bmay be substantially similar to the slots 282 a, 282 b.

With reference to FIGS. 23 through 26, another configuration of aconnector 504 is shown. The structure and function of the connector 504may be substantially similar to that of the connectors illustrated anddescribed herein, apart from any exceptions described below and/or shownin the Figures. Therefore, the structure and/or function of similarfeatures will not be described again in detail, and like referencenumerals may be used to describe like features and components.

The connector 504 may extend longitudinally between a first end 506 anda second end 508, and may include a channel or passage 510 in which aportion of the first rod 12 and a portion of the second rod 14 ispositioned. As illustrated in FIG. 26, in one configuration the passage510 defines a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape.

The connector 504 may be at least partially defined by first and secondsidewalls 512, 514, a bottom wall 516. The first and second sidewalls512, 514 may define an elongated opening or slot 515 therebetween. Thefirst and second sidewalls 512, 514 may extend between the first andsecond ends 506, 508. The bottom wall 516 may extend between and connectthe first and second sidewalls 512, 514. The elongated slot 515 mayextend longitudinally between the first and second sidewalls 512, 514and open into and communicate with the passage 510.

The first and second sidewalls 512, 514 may include a plurality ofspaced apart slots 520 a, 520 b, respectively, oriented along the lengthof the connector 504 between the first and second ends 506, 508. Theslots 520 a may be laterally aligned with the slots 520 b in the secondsidewall 514. In this regard, as illustrated in FIG. 25, a first bridge522 a extending between consecutive slots 520 a may be laterally alignedwith a second bridge (not shown) extending between consecutive slots 520b. As illustrated in FIG. 26, in some configurations a lower surface oredge 524 of the slots 520 a may define, or otherwise be coplanar with,an upper surface 526 of the slots 520 b, and an upper surface or edge528 of the slots 520 a may define, or otherwise be coplanar with, anupper surface 530 of the passage 510. In addition, a lower surface oredge 532 of the slots 520 b may define, or otherwise be coplanar with, alower surface 533 of the passage 510.

The bottom wall 516 may include a first and second plurality of slots536 a, 536 b. As illustrated in FIG. 24, the first and second pluralityof slots 536 a, 536 b may each define a substantially linear patternextending longitudinally between the first and second ends 506, 508 ofthe connector 504. The first plurality of slots 536 a may be laterallyaligned with the second plurality of slots 536 b and with the firstbridge 522 a (FIG. 25). The second plurality of slots 536 b may belaterally aligned with the second bridge 522 b.

A method of manufacturing the connector 504 may include machining thepassage 510. Specifically, a milling or other cutting tool (not shown)may be used to form each of the slots 520 a and 520 b, and thus defineat least a portion of the top and bottom surfaces 530, 533 respectively,of the passage 510. Similarly, a milling or other cutting tool (notshown) may be used to form each of the slots 536 a, 536 b, and thusdefine a remaining portion of the top surface 530 of the passage 510. Amilling or other cutting tool (not shown) may also be used to form theelongated slot 515, and to at least partially define the lower surface533 of the passage 510. It will be appreciated that aligning the slots536 a, 536 b with the bridges 522 a, 522 b, respectively, allows for themanufacture of a continuous passage 510 along the length of theconnector 504. In this regard, with reference to FIGS. 26 and 27, itwill also be appreciated that the slots 536 a, 536 b and the slots 520a, 520 b can define the width of the sidewalls of the passage 510.Accordingly, the slot 515 can have a width that is less than the widthof the sidewalls of the passage 510. The width of the slot 515 relativeto the width of the sidewalls of the passage 510 ensures that the firstand second rods 12, 14 are secured within the passage 510, and cannotexit the slot 515, in a similar manner as that described above withrespect to connectors 204 and 304.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided forpurposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or featuresof a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particularembodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be usedin a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described.The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to beregarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modificationsare intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will bethorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled inthe art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples ofspecific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thoroughunderstanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will beapparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not beemployed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many differentforms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of thedisclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes,well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are notdescribed in detail.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularexample embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As usedherein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and“having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of statedfeatures, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, butdo not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features,integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groupsthereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described hereinare not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance inthe particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specificallyidentified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood thatadditional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,”“connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may bedirectly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element orlayer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast,when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engagedto,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another elementor layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Otherwords used to describe the relationship between elements should beinterpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directlybetween,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein,the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more ofthe associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein todescribe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections,these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should notbe limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguishone element, component, region, layer or section from another region,layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numericalterms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearlyindicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region,layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element,component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachingsof the example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,”“lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease ofdescription to describe one element or feature's relationship to anotherelement(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatiallyrelative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations ofthe device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depictedin the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turnedover, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements orfeatures would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features.Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation ofabove and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptorsused herein interpreted accordingly.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of adjusting a distance between a firstsurgical rod and a second surgical rod, the method comprising: providinga surgical rod connector having a housing with first and second ends anda longitudinal passage extending between the first end and the secondend; positioning the first surgical rod in the first end; positioningthe second surgical rod in the second end; mounting an anchor mechanismto the surgical rod connector; and applying a force on the anchormechanism and a corresponding force on at least one of the first andsecond surgical rods to distract the first and second surgical rodsrelative to one another.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein mounting theanchor mechanism to the surgical rod connector includes engaging theanchor mechanism with at least one slot defined by the surgical rodconnector.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein engaging the anchormechanism with at least one slot defined by the surgical rod connectorincludes rotating a first arm member about a first axis, and engagingthe first arm member with the at least one slot.
 4. The method of claim3, wherein engaging the anchor mechanism with at least one slot definedby the surgical rod connector includes rotating a second arm memberabout a second axis, and engaging the second arm member with at leastone other slot.
 5. The method of claim 3, wherein engaging a portion ofthe first arm member with the at least one slot includes engaging thefirst arm member with a first slot and with a second slot.
 6. The methodof claim 1, wherein the housing includes a sidewall with an opening, andapplying a force on the anchor mechanism and a corresponding force onone of the first and second surgical rods includes inserting adistraction tool through the opening and into the longitudinal passage.7. The method of claim 6, further including pivotably coupling thedistraction tool to the anchor mechanism, and wherein inserting thedistraction tool through the opening and into the longitudinal passageincludes rotating an adjustment member relative to the distraction tool.8. The method of claim 1, wherein applying a force on the anchormechanism and a corresponding force on one of the first and secondsurgical rods includes placing a distraction tool on a first side of theanchor mechanism to distract the first surgical rod, and placing thedistraction tool on a second side of the anchor mechanism, opposite thefirst side, to distract the second surgical rod.
 9. The method of claim1, further comprising engaging a first fastener with the surgical rodconnector to secure the first surgical rod within the longitudinalpassage.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein mounting an anchor mechanismto the surgical rod connector includes: rotating a first arm member toengage the first arm member with the at least one slot; and rotating alocking member to engage the locking member with the first arm memberand to lock the first arm member to the surgical rod connector.
 11. Amethod of adjusting a first surgical rod relative to a surgical rodconnector, the surgical rod connector having a housing with first andsecond ends and a longitudinal passage extending between the first endand the second end, the method comprising: positioning the firstsurgical rod in the first end; positioning the second surgical rod inthe second end; mounting an anchor mechanism to the surgical rodconnector; and applying a force on the anchor mechanism and acorresponding force on one of the first and second surgical rods todistract the first surgical rod relative to the surgical rod connector.12. The method of claim 11, wherein mounting the anchor mechanism to thesurgical rod connector includes engaging the anchor mechanism with atleast one slot defined by the surgical rod connector.
 13. The method ofclaim 12, wherein engaging the anchor mechanism with the at least oneslot defined by the surgical rod connector includes rotating a first armmember about a first axis, and engaging the first arm member with the atleast one slot.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein engaging a portionof the first arm member with the at least one slot includes engaging thefirst arm member with a first slot and with a second slot.
 15. Themethod of claim 11, wherein the housing includes a sidewall with anopening, and applying a force on the anchor mechanism and acorresponding force on one of the first and second surgical rodsincludes inserting a distraction tool through the opening and into thelongitudinal passage.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein thedistraction tool is pivotably coupled to the anchor mechanism, andwherein inserting the distraction tool through the opening and into thelongitudinal passage includes rotating an adjustment member relative tothe distraction tool.
 17. The method of claim 11, wherein applying aforce on the anchor mechanism and a corresponding force on one of thefirst and second surgical rods includes placing a distraction tool on afirst side of the anchor mechanism to distract the first surgical rod,and placing the distraction tool on a second side of the anchormechanism, opposite the first side, to distract the second surgical rod.18. The method of claim 11, further comprising engaging a first fastenerwith the surgical rod connector to secure the first surgical rod withinthe longitudinal passage.
 19. The method of claim 11, wherein mountingan anchor mechanism to the surgical rod connector includes: rotating afirst arm member to engage the first arm member with the at least oneslot; and rotating a locking member to engage the locking member withthe first arm member and to lock the first arm member to the surgicalrod connector.
 20. A method of adjusting a first surgical rod relativeto a surgical rod connector, the surgical rod connector having a housingwith first and second ends and a longitudinal passage extending betweenthe first end and the second end, the method comprising: positioning thefirst surgical rod in the first end; mounting an anchor mechanism to thesurgical rod connector; inserting a distraction member into thelongitudinal passage; and applying a force on the anchor mechanism and acorresponding force on the distracting member to distract the firstsurgical rod relative to the surgical rod connector.